In a landmark move for gender inclusion, the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has announced the appointment of its first-ever female national spokesperson. Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC) Jane Osuji now assumes the role of Public Relations Officer, marking a significant shift in the service's leadership and communication strategy.
A Historic Appointment for the NCoS
Controller General of the Service, Sylvester Nwakuche, confirmed the appointment in a communique issued on Monday, December 1, 2025, in Abuja. The statement was signed by the Deputy Controller General in charge of Human Resources, Ado Sale. Osuji's appointment is effective immediately, following the retirement of the former PRO, Deputy Controller of Corrections Umar Abubakar, on November 19, 2025.
In his remarks, Controller General Nwakuche expressed confidence in the new appointee. He stated that her extensive experience and dedication would greatly enhance the service's communication efforts. Osuji, who hails from Owerri-North Local Government Area in Imo State, brings a robust academic and professional background to the position.
Osuji's Career Path and Qualifications
Jane Osuji holds a Bachelor's degree in Public Relations and Advertising from Lagos State University and a Master's in Public Administration from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology. She began her career with the service in 2009 as an Assistant Superintendent of Prisons, a title since changed to Corrections.
Her career progression includes several strategic communications roles:
- Assistant Public Relations Officer for both the Lagos State and Federal Capital Territory Commands.
- Assistant National Public Relations Officer at the NCoS national headquarters in Abuja.
- Press Secretary to three successive Ministers of Interior between 2015 and 2023.
She has also completed advanced training, including the Internal Security and Low Intensity Conflict Operations Course at the prestigious Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Jaji. Reacting to her new role, Osuji said she was honoured and looked forward to enhancing the service's communication strategy and reinforcing its commitment to transparency and public engagement.
NCoS Empowers Ex-Offenders with Starter Packs
In a related development focused on the service's core mandate, the NCoS has taken a concrete step to bolster prisoner rehabilitation and social justice. On November 26, 2025, the service empowered twenty-four ex-offenders with aftercare materials and life skills starter packs to facilitate their smooth reintegration into society.
Controller General Nwakuche presented the packs to the beneficiaries—20 men and 4 women—at an event in Abuja. He emphasized that the initiative is designed to address the unique reintegration challenges faced by women and young persons. The timing of the distribution aligns with the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, underscoring a gender-responsive approach to corrections.
The starter packs were tailored to the beneficiaries' chosen vocations and included tools for trades such as:
- Hairdressing and Cosmetology
- Tailoring and Fabrication
- Metalwork and Laundry services
This initiative highlights the NCoS's evolving focus from mere custody to active rehabilitation, providing practical support to reduce recidivism and promote successful community reintegration for former inmates.
